IL Senate approves cellphone driving ban

The Illinois Senate has voted to ban the use of cell phones while driving. But there are a few exceptions.

Supporters of the cell-phone ban say it's about safety. Sen. John Mulroe, a Democrat from Chicago, spoke in graphic terms.

"I don't want you to end up underneath the semi-truck and your head cut off, or ending up crashing into a tree, or in oncoming traffic."

The legislation would allow people to use phones in hands-free mode, like with a headset, as long as it only takes one button to place a call. CB radios would also be exempt from the ban.Opponents, like Democratic Sen. Mike Jacobs, from East Moline, say this is another example of government intrusion into what should be a matter of personal responsibility.

"Anyone that texts on their phone and drives is a fool. And anyone who talks while they're driving is an idiot. But that doesn't mean we should have a law to say so." Nevertheless, the measure passed the Senate 34-20. It already passed the House in March, but that chamber still has to decide whether to agree with the Senate's changes before the legislation can be sent to the governor.